Alex MacLean
Aerial photography has the power to provide unique and breathtaking perspectives on the world we live in. Among the most influential and highly-regarded practitioners of this art form is Alex MacLean (website). With a career spanning over four decades, MacLean has captured countless stunning images of landscapes and urban environments from the skies, providing viewers with a fresh take on familiar scenes.
Early Life and Career
Born in 1947 in Massachusetts, USA, Alex MacLean was fascinated by photography from a young age. He pursued this passion by earning a Master's degree in architecture from Harvard University, where he honed his skills in composition and design. In 1975, MacLean obtained his pilot's license, combining his love for photography and aviation to create a successful career in aerial photography.
Photographic Style and Techniques
MacLean's photographic style is characterized by his attention to detail and his ability to capture the intricate patterns and textures of both natural and man-made landscapes. He often focuses on the contrast between these two elements, showcasing the dynamic interplay between humans and the environment. Through his lens, viewers are invited to explore the world from a new perspective, appreciating the beauty, complexity, and interconnectedness of our surroundings.
Career Highlights
Over the years, Alex MacLean has earned numerous accolades for his work, including multiple grants and prestigious awards. His aerial photographs have been featured in countless exhibitions and publications worldwide, and he has worked with clients such as National Geographic, The New York Times, and various environmental organizations. MacLean's images have also been used for educational purposes, illustrating the impact of human activity on the environment and promoting environmental conservation efforts.
Photography Gear
Some of the key gear used by Alex MacLean includes:
High-resolution digital cameras: MacLean relies on high-quality digital cameras to capture the fine details and rich colors of the landscapes he shoots. Brands such as Canon and Nikon are often favored for their exceptional image quality and performance.
Wide-angle lenses: To capture the vast expanses of land and cityscapes, MacLean often uses wide-angle lenses, which allow him to include more of the scene in a single frame.
Polarizing filters: These filters help to reduce glare and reflections, enhancing the clarity and contrast of MacLean's aerial images.
Light aircraft: MacLean pilots a light aircraft, such as a Cessna, to reach the altitudes and locations necessary for his photography.
Published Photo Books
"Impact: The effect of climate change on coastlines" offers a unique perspective on the consequences of climate change on coastlines worldwide, utilizing aerial photography to provide a powerful visual narrative. Alex MacLean's expertise in capturing the Earth's landscape from the sky is evident in this book, making it a valuable resource for photographers interested in environmental issues and the power of aerial imagery.
"Designs on the Land: Exploring America from the Air" showcases a stunning collection of aerial photographs that reveal the patterns and designs of the American landscape. This book offers practicing photographers insights into the techniques used to capture these images, as well as inspiration for their own aerial photography projects.
"Up on the Roof: New York's Hidden Skyline Spaces" uncovers the hidden world of New York City's rooftop spaces, providing a fresh perspective on the city's architectural marvels. The book emphasizes the importance of capturing unique viewpoints in photography and offers inspiration for photographers seeking to explore urban environments.
"Over: The American Landscape at the Tipping Point" is a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of human activity on the environment. Through striking aerial photographs, Alex MacLean highlights the tipping point faced by the American landscape and offers inspiration to photographers interested in documenting the relationship between humans and nature.
"Renaissances" is a captivating collection of aerial photographs that capture the architectural wonders of the Renaissance period in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France. Commissioned to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Renaissance in 2019, renowned landscape photographer Alex MacLean took to the skies in July 2018 to photograph the region's historic castles. The book features stunning aerial images of these UNESCO World Heritage sites, revealing the quintessence of a time when kings and patrons inspired an extraordinary revival of art and thought. "Renaissances" offers photographers inspiration for exploring new perspectives and techniques while documenting the beauty of historic architecture and the stories it holds.
Quotes
"Aerial photography allows us to see the world in ways that are not possible from the ground."
"The challenge is to capture the essence of a place or a moment, while also conveying a sense of the larger context in which it exists."
"I believe that photography has the power to educate, inform, and inspire change."
Legacy and Influence
Alex MacLean's pioneering work in aerial photography has left an indelible mark on the field, inspiring countless photographers to explore new perspectives and techniques. His images have not only served as powerful tools for education and environmental advocacy but have also pushed the boundaries of photographic art.
Other notable photographers with similar styles are:
George Steinmetz: Known for his stunning aerial images captured from a motorized paraglider, Steinmetz's work often showcases remote landscapes and the impact of human activity on the environment.
Yann Arthus-Bertrand: A French photographer and environmentalist, Arthus-Bertrand is celebrated for his aerial photography projects, such as "The Earth from Above," which aim to raise awareness about environmental issues.
Vincent Laforet: A Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer, Laforet has captured breathtaking aerial images of cities and landscapes around the world. His "Air" series, featuring nighttime cityscapes, is particularly renowned.
Tommy Clarke: A British aerial photographer, Clarke is known for his vibrant and abstract images of coastal landscapes, often taken while hanging out of helicopters.
Through his dedication to the craft and his unwavering commitment to showcasing the beauty and fragility of our world, Alex MacLean has solidified his place in the history of aerial photography. Aspiring photographers can learn much from his unique vision, technical prowess, and passion for the environment. By appreciating and understanding the work of trailblazers like MacLean, the next generation of photographers can continue to push the boundaries of aerial photography, capturing the world from new heights and perspectives.